Österreichische Secession

The Österreichische Secession, or Austrian Secession, was an art movement that emerged in Vienna around 1897 as a reaction against traditional academic art. A group of artists, including Gustav Klimt, sought to promote innovative and modern artistic expressions, emphasizing individual creativity. The movement is best known for its distinctive style, characterized by decorative elements and symbolic themes, most famously seen in Klimt's works. The Secession also aimed to create a new cultural forum, exemplified by the iconic Secession Building in Vienna, which became a symbol of artistic freedom and modernity.